Summary Writing

Summary teaching involves two major processes: information gathering (reading,

identifying, choosing and interpreting what is relevant) and information giving

(synthesizing, organizing and writing). Teaching must move beyond 'identifying points' to

include in summary to understanding how the text is written. Focusing on text

organizational patterns such as cause and effect, problem and solution, before and after

and similar developmental strategies, can lead students to greater comprehension and

synthesis of information before they begin to write.

Sample Summary for January 2012:

The high price of oil has caused us to look for alternative sources of energy, which can be

produced at a lower cost and are now environmentally friendly. Using renewable energy

sources, which are resources that never run out, offers many advantages. They are usually

indigenous to a country and so reduce the need for foreign exchange, do not pollute the

environment, have a multitude of applications and can be accessed anywhere. However, the cost

of implementing the use of renewable energy is very high. To successfully develop its

production and use, large investments are needed. There must be policies that provide

incentives, such as reducing import duties and selling excess electricity.